A Simple Guide to Asphalt Roof Maintenance for Homeowners

Written by: Tony Hall

Your roof is a big investment, and often represents a substantial portion of building costs. It’s the roofing company’s job to ensure homeowners protect their investment by providing careful maintenance on a regular basis. You may choose to schedule periodic maintenance with a roofing company, or opt for your own self-service. Either way, your roof must be cared for adequately.

What Causes Damage?

The average residential roof will take quite the abuse over its lifetime – often more than any other portion of the house. Some common ways in which damage is incurred include:

Exposure to various elements, including wind, hail, rain and snow.

Tree or plant debris abrading the material

Poor installation

Inconsistent maintenance and improper repairs

Change in building usage (often leading to increased humidity or poor ventilation)

Steps to Maintaining Your Roof

A professional roofer may help you maintain your asphalt roof twice per year – plus after any significant storms in the area. Follow this simple checklist for the best results:

General Housekeeping – On occasion, clear debris from the roof, including leaves, branches and anything else causing trouble. You may use a leaf blower to accomplish this job. Then, consider trimming low-hanging tree branches to prevent leaks.

Inspection – At least once per year, schedule a roof inspection. Some homeowners opt for twice (Spring and Fall). This provides opportunity to note any potentially troublesome areas, and complete minor repairs before they worsen.

Repairs – When it comes to repairs, do not wait. Instead, perform roof repairs promptly for the best results. To maintain the integrity of the roof, repairs should be completed by a professional, not an amateur. This is not a do-it-yourself type of job.